Gone in a flash? Managing your cash flow at the festival

Wednesday

Jun 19, 2013 at 10:26 AMJun 19, 2013 at 12:39 PM

First, the (obvious) good news: your biggest expenses are behind you. Not only did you heed your parents' smartest and most redundant parental advice by planning ahead and getting your tickets months ago but you also actually made it to Dover. Who cares if it was by bus, by hook or by crook? You're here. And, let's face it. That's the most important part, right?

Christine Miller

First, the (obvious) good news: your biggest expenses are behind you. Not only did you heed your parents' smartest and most redundant parental advice by planning ahead and getting your tickets months ago but you also actually made it to Dover. Who cares if it was by bus, by hook or by crook? You're here. And, let's face it. That's the most important part, right?

But, because this isn't your first rodeo, nobody has to tell you that you're not done spending money. And, depending on whose bank account you're working out of-yours or some generous benefactor (thanks, Mom and Dad) who is clearly anxious to help you expand your world view through music – it's good to know up front what kind of additional expenses you're looking at.

Here's the breakdown:

1. Refreshments The really good news is that the water is free. Bring your own empty, reusable container and you can fill up at one of several water refill stations located throughout the festival grounds.

Want something other than water? A Heineken will set you back $7. Or, stop by The Brewery, the festival's onsite craft beer bar sponsored by the homegrown guys of Dogfish Head Craft Brewery. Like last year, they've brought back Firefly Ale, the event's signature drink. Described as a pale ale brewed with English Marris Otter barley and American Calypso hops with 5 percent alcohol by volume, a pint will set you back $8 to $9. They'll also be offering several other of their award-winning brews as well. The best part? You don't have to miss a minute of the music because Dogfish Head will be live-streaming festival performances. Could it get any better? Yes: The Brewery is also air-conditioned.

The Vineyard is back this year, too. For $7 to $8 a glass, sample some of the best regional wines in a relaxed outdoor setting.

2. Souvenirs You need proof that you were here, right? From t-shirts to water bottles, there's plenty of merchandise you can take home. Expect to spend anywhere from $15 to $45.

TOMS Shoes is back with the Style Your Sole experience. Purchase a pair of TOMS shoes ($58) on-site and then work with an artist to get one-of-a-kind kicks.

3. The free stuff Not only did Firefly bring back all of last year's most popular non-musical attractions, organizers also added even more things to do when you need a break from the stage.

Hammock Hangouts Take a break from listening to your favorite artists in one of two Hammock Hangouts on site.Forest Cinema Silent films in black and white, hosted in one of two of the Firefly's Hammock Hangouts.The Coffee House Chill out to some acoustic vibes by some Firefly artists at our Coffee House featuring Bearclaw Coffee.FYE Artist signing tent: Festivals are about connecting with others, including your favorite artists. Stop by the artist signing tent to spark up conversation and get an autograph from your favorite band.Gibson Guitar Try out your skills at the Gibson Guitar tent.Jack Daniels Whiskey Museum A touch of Tennessee in The Woodlands. Take a brief tour and learn a little more about the history of Jack Daniels.Garnier Fructis Styling Salon When dry shampoo just doesn't cut it. Freshen up your 'do at the Garnier Fructis Styling Salon.The Thicket Firefly's silent, headphone dance party. Tucked away in the woods, DJs will be spinning music all day long to provide guests a place to bust out their moves amongst the trees. After the Festival, the Thicket will move to The Hub and kick it back up for the night owls who want to keep rocking out. (There is a $20 holding fee that you get back once you return the headphones.)

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